de-emphasize

verb

de-em·​pha·​size (ˌ)dē-ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

de-emphasized; de-emphasizing; de-emphasizes

transitive verb

: to reduce in relative importance

also : play down

de-emphasis

(ˌ)dē-ˈem(p)-fə-səs 

noun

Synonyms of de-emphasize

• minimize
• downplay
• dismiss
• soft-pedal

Examples of de-emphasize in a Sentence

you're at a point in your career where you can de-emphasize your academic record and emphasize your work experience

Recent Examples on the Web

Our tactile and sensory life has been de-emphasized in favor of ideas, symbols, accomplishments, and abstractions. — Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 16 June 2026

Just as some young workers must be redirected from the firms that are de-emphasizing entry-level work, small business owners need to invest in training them. — Revana Sharfuddin, Twin Cities, 31 May 2026

At the very least, players and parents feel the university is de-emphasizing its support for lacrosse. — Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 27 May 2026

Along with his predecessor Pam Bondi, Blanche oversaw a Justice Department that radically de-emphasized the prosecution of white-collar crimes, like the kind the Kaplan twins were convicted of. — Noah Shachtman, Vanity Fair, 26 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for de-emphasize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize